About
Calvin Klein, an American fashion designer, is renowned for his contributions to womenswear, menswear, jeans, cosmetics, perfumes, and other lifestyle products. He established his eponymous company in 1968, entering a fashion landscape then dominated by casual styles. Initially focusing on suits and coats, Klein shifted his emphasis toward sportswear, particularly the concept of interchangeable separates. His designs, known for their relatively high price point, classic elegance, and ease of wear, resonated with consumers both domestically and internationally. Klein's success is often viewed as a marker not only of his unique design sensibility but also of the broader evolution and maturation of the American fashion industry. Beyond his clothing lines, Klein gained significant notoriety for his often provocative advertising campaigns, featuring notable figures such as Brooke Shields and Mark Wahlberg, which helped shape the image of his brand and contributed to its cultural influence. In 2003, he sold his company to Phillips-Van Heusen, a move that marked a significant chapter in the brand’s history, after which he largely maintained a private life. His 2017 autobiography, *Calvin Klein*, offers a comprehensive look at his career and its impact.